Runoffs at Sonoma Raceway, but itis not a done deal. “I have a hotelreservation and I hope I can make itwork. I learn so much at this level andI can then bring new things back to ourRegional level.” Matt also takes pridein learning to do several non-intrusivetests that keep the drivers honestwithout requiring them to do a majortear down. In Spec Miata they askdrivers to pull their starters to allowfor a man in black to run a magnet tothe flywheel to check that it is iron.For several other classes, they havego, no-go ride height blocks, and theyjust purchased a tool for checking thediameter of brake discs. In AmericanSedan they check carburetors withthree go, no-go devices. “All they haveto do is remove the air cleaner.”In Spec Racer they even weighthe body panels on occasion. “Noteveryone knows there is a spec forthat,” he notes. “I’ve also made a toolthat can check on the required amountof exposed thread in the lower heimjoints. It is a safety issue, and safetyis paramount.” Matt says that all ofthese tests keep his team memberssharp and that most drivers appreciatethat tech is running a tight ship.

Recently, a newbie in a Spec Miatawas caught without a restrictor. “It washis first event ever and he genuinelydidn’t know of the requirement,” hesays. “We have a printer in tech, so weget the results right away [and] whenI checked that, I saw he was dead lastin his group. So, instead of writing theguy up, I took him around to a couple ofSpec Miata prep guys and introducedhim. One of them sold him the restrictorplate and showed him how to correctlyinstall it.” When Matt consulted theChief Stewart of his approach, theresponse was, “That’s what we likeabout you guys – you use your heads.”Racing is a family affair for Matt. Hiswife Diane has been the team’s foodprep service for the entire 41-yearrun. He sons, Matthew and Anthony,are avid autocrossers, and grandsonMatthew is the official Junior CrewChief. In accepting his ScrutineerWorker of the Year Award during thepresentation ceremony at the 2017Runoffs, Matt wanted it made clearthat it was not all about him. “I’mso proud of how my team operatesand how they treat racers,” he says.“I’ve had wonderful mentors like BillEtherington and Karl Iochum.”Matt Wojtkowiak has the Club spritall right, in a very professional way.